Do you have a dream, a goal, or a desire that lingers in the back of your mind yet seems elusive? It could be a career change, starting a business, pursuing further education, prioritizing your health and well-being, or any other aspiration you are yearning for but not actively seeking. The question we often need to ask ourselves is: What’s holding me back?
Identifying the Obstacles:
The journey towards any goal is riddled with external and internal obstacles. Fear, financial constraints, time limitations, geographical challenges, or family obligations are some common roadblocks many women face.
For the sake of brevity, I will focus on prioritizing physical and mental well-being today; however, you could substitute any pursuit or desire and use this framework.
Fear: Fear can be a powerful force, paralyzing us into inaction. Whether it’s fear of failure, rejection, or the unknown, acknowledging and confronting these fears is the first step toward overcoming them. Maybe you have tried to start working out in the past and, for one reason or another, didn’t follow through. Perhaps you fear the same thing will happen this time, so you have talked yourself out of trying again.
Financial Constraints: Money often features prominently as a barrier. But it’s crucial to remember that financial limitations can be navigated with careful planning, budgeting, and resourcefulness. There are lots of free or highly affordable resources available online now. If COVID did anything for us, it showed us the power of virtual instruction, which is often more cost-effective (for several reasons) than in-person training.
Time Limitations: Balancing work, family, and personal pursuits can be challenging. However, understanding your priorities, setting realistic goals, and learning to manage your time effectively can help you carve out the time you need for your aspirations. BLOG: How I Program Effective 30-Minute Workouts.
Geographical Challenges: Living in a particular location may present unique challenges. However, with technological advancements and remote opportunities, geographical barriers are becoming less formidable. Maybe you don’t have a safe place to exercise outside or access a Pilates studio or fitness center in your neighborhood. Consider exploring new possibilities beyond your immediate surroundings, both physically and virtually.
Family Obligations: Many women are torn between personal goals and family responsibilities. Open communication with your loved ones, creating a support system, and finding ways to integrate your aspirations with your family life can make a significant difference. As a mom, I know firsthand how easy it is to sacrifice your needs for your family’s needs; however, the cliche that you can’t pour from an empty cup is true.
Taking Action:
Now that we’ve identified potential barriers, let’s focus on breaking through them. It starts with a shift in mindset—an acknowledgment that your dreams are valid, achievable, and worth pursuing.
Set Clear Goals: Define your aspirations clearly. Break them down into smaller, manageable steps. This makes your goals more achievable and helps you track your progress. Check out this blog post for some of my favorite goal-setting tips and tricks.
Seek Support: Share your dreams with friends, family, or mentors. Surround yourself with a supportive network that understands your vision and encourages you to pursue it. If your family isn’t supportive, check out this post on what you can do to reach your goals.
Ask a Professional/Phone a Friend: Asking for help is not a weakness. Don’t let the fear of not knowing where to start hold you back. That’s where the professionals come in to lend a hand. If professional help isn’t in the cards, try speaking to a trusted friend or family member who has gone through a similar situation.
Embrace Failure: Understand that setbacks are a natural part of any journey. Instead of viewing them as roadblocks, see them as opportunities to learn and grow. Failure is not the opposite of success; it’s a stepping stone toward it. Strive for progress, not perfection.
Celebrate Success: Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement creates momentum and motivates you to keep moving forward.
Conclusion:
So, what’s holding you back? Whatever the answer may be, it’s time to confront it head-on. As women, we possess a unique strength, resilience, and determination. Break free from the constraints, challenge the status quo, and embark on the journey toward your dreams. The world is waiting for the brilliance that only you can bring. If I can help, please reach out.
